HALIFAX – It has been a record-breaking year for vehicle-pedestrian accidents in the city of Halifax.
In 2013, there were 176 collisions between vehicles and pedestrians. So far this year, that number increased substantially.
“In 2014 there have been 254 collisions involving pedestrians in HRM,” said Cst. Pierre Bourdages, Halifax Regional Police.
The city used a campaign called “Heads Up Halifax” as one way to educate the public and curb the number of accidents. It was aimed at drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, reminding everyone that road safety is a shared responsibility.
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Citizens themselves also worked to find a solution; crosswalk flags were put in place at some intersections in Halifax to help people of all ages safely navigate the streets.
“We can’t simply accept the number of injuries and deaths, that is not acceptable to me,” said Norm Collins, a crosswalk safety advocate and the man behind the crossing flags.
Collins said more needs to be done in 2015 to help prevent vehicle-pedestrian accidents, starting with enforcement. “I’ve recommended a crosswalk enforcement unit which the police are as I understand considering. I hope they move forward with that and that council approves it.”
Besides enforcement, Collins said everyone has to do more to keep pedestrians safe.
“Everyone has to take responsibility for themselves. Drivers and pedestrians need to be less distracted, need to pay more attention.”
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